Facing the charging Root operative, Kabuto could already feel the pressure.
A bead of cold sweat dripped from his forehead.
Still,
this was only his instinctive nervousness at facing a powerful opponent. It wasn't enough to make Kabuto retreat.
He didn't charge forward to meet him. He simply watched, studying every movement, every step, every detail of the man's posture, trying to determine how he would attack and apply his strength once he reached him.
He has a sword on his back.
He'll most likely draw it when he gets close.
But why didn't he draw it beforehand?
Because he thinks I'm beneath him?
Does he want to overpower me head-on with Taijutsu?
Against bare-handed Taijutsu, my kunai gives me the advantage. I'll only get one chance. I have to exploit the opening his carelessness leaves!
In just two seconds, Kabuto had worked out the basics of his response.
That was when the Root operative reached him.
Kabuto twisted, his kunai tracing a bright arc through the air.
"Careful. He's about to draw his sword."
Gua's voice came from behind him.
Kabuto's pupils contracted slightly.
He had miscalculated!
His opponent hadn't been careless at all!
The Root operative did indeed draw his sword!!
The reason he hadn't drawn it before charging was to lull Kabuto into letting his guard down. Once he got close, he drew and slashed at incredible speed.
A long sword against a kunai-
it was an almost overwhelmingly one-sided attack, especially with the element of surprise.
Kabuto's heart jolted.
He immediately switched from offense to defense, blocking the sword with his kunai.
Clang-
A clear metallic ring rang out.
"Next is a slash from his left."
Gua's voice remained calm. He showed no displeasure at Kabuto falling behind despite his warning, merely stating the next move